What is it? Chrysler introduced its first production hybrid vehicles in Los Angeles, the 2009 Chrysler Aspen and Dodge Durango. These large SUVs combine 5.7-liter Hemi V8 engines with a two-mode hybrid system co-developed with BMW, General Motors, and Mercedes-Benz. The result is powertrain that produces 385 horsepower and is capable of towing 6,000 lbs in these applications.
The two-mode hybrid system allows a vehicle to operate on electric-only power, gasoline engine power, or a combination of the drive systems. Combined with the Hemi’s variable displacement system, Chrysler claims the hybrid configuration makes a 25-percent fuel economy improvement to these SUVs. In City driving, efficiency improves by 40 percent. Based on our latest Durango test, that would mean an increase in overall mpg from 12 to 15, and a city improvement from 8 to 11.2 mpg. Part of fuel-economy gain comes from the electric-assist making it possible for the engine to stay longer in four-cylinder mode, rather than the thirstier eight-cylinder mode it defaults to under heavy load, such as acceleration or towing.
When will it be available? Summer 2008.
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